graziella@friendsofhumanity.ch is organizing this fundraiser.
Background and Objectives
The Kingwangala Harvesting Project is part of a broader initiative to combat malnutrition in the rural commune of Kingwangala, province of Kwango (DRC).
Supported by Friends of Humanity (Switzerland), and implemented by the Cercle des Jeunes Leaders pour la Paix (CJLP-RDC), the project aims to strengthen food security and restore agricultural autonomy.
In a region where two out of five people in a household suffer from malnutrition, this program represents a vital intervention for local development and community resilience. The first implementation phase began in July 2025 for a duration of 8 to 12 months, covering training, agricultural production, and water access improvement.
Achievements So Far
1. Agricultural Capacity Building
- 100 households were selected and trained in modern agricultural techniques by a team of agronomists and technical assistants.
- These sessions focused on:
- Land preparation, seed selection, and crop rotation.
- Soil fertilization and sustainable cultivation methods.
- Post-harvest conservation and food diversification.
This training addressed the outdated techniques previously used by local farmers, enhancing yield potential and nutritional variety.
2. Land Development and Crop Planting
A 156m × 98m field (over 400 crop ridges) was developed as the first experimental farm.
The following crops were planted:
- Maize – expected harvest: December 2025
- Soybean – expected harvest: November 2025
- Cassava (two varieties) – harvests planned for March 2026 and July 2026
This multi-crop model combines rapid-yield and long-term crops to ensure continuous food availability.
3. Agricultural Equipment and Inputs Distributed
To support farmers’ autonomy, CJLP distributed essential agricultural tools and seeds:
All activities were financed by the initial FOH grant, with a remaining balance of $200 secured in the project account. The detailed financial summary can be accessed here for further reference.
4. Milling Infrastructure
To reduce physical strain and improve food processing, the project plans to install three modern mills (for maize and cassava).
These mills will:
- Facilitate flour production for families.
- Improve local nutrition by easing access to processed foods.
- Generate small-scale income through community management.
Next Steps (2025–2026)
The project is now in its final phase: harvesting, milling, and distribution. To complete this, three mazout-powered mills are required for maize, cassava, and mixed nutritious flour. The total cost is USD 2,845. This final investment will enable families to process their own grains, provide nutritious food to children, and secure long-term food autonomy.
Impact Outlook
- Immediate outcomes:
- 100 households equipped and trained.
- Over 15 hectares of farmland prepared and cultivated.
- Foundations laid for sustainable food and water systems.
- Expected results by mid-2026:
- Substantial reduction in malnutrition indicators in Kingwangala.
- Increased community resilience through self-sufficient food systems.
Acknowledgment
CJLP expresses its sincere gratitude to Friends of Humanity for its continuous trust and financial support. This partnership has already transformed the lives of hundreds of vulnerable people in Kingwangala and will continue to foster a sustainable, community-driven fight against malnutrition in the Democratic Republic of Congo.